Country of origin

Yesterday I had participated in a study. This study was about the product's country of origin. One of the questions that was asked me was if I check the country of origin of the products that I buy. I selected yes. Because of course I do check the country of origin for each and every purchase. It is not a recent habit.

I remember when I was a child I put go out for a purchasing groceries with my dad every Sunday. We want go to a nearby shop. Dad would have the list of items to be purchased with him. We put go across all the isles to pick up the things we wanted to purchase. Something that dad taught me at a very young age. Always check the country of origin, the manufacturing date, the use by date, and if there are any rewards or gift along with it. When we would go for grocery shopping my dad would ask me to pick the items. I would tell him that I have to check everything as per what he had taught me. The item that I have picked up has passed the quality checklist. Themes the item would be placed into the cart.

In last few years I have seen the trend that a lot of people want to buy things that are manufactured in India. I am glad to see that trend. I see that a lot of celebrities and influencers are suggesting people to buy the things that are made in India. The walking lion on the products indicates that the product was made in India. I am really delighted to see little children check the walking lion on the products.

Besides I come from a family of freedom fighters. My ancestors have what for the independence of India during the British era. I am proud to say that patriotism runs in my blood. I am proud Indian. I am keen about the products that are made in India. I am willing to pay more for such products. To me it does not matter if it is a packet of biscuits or an artisanal piece, if it is made in India it would be my first choice. When are you the products that are made in India I beam with pride. It gives me a sense of satisfaction that I am not only supporting the local products but also helping the economy of my motherland. If the money goes into building and growing my nation I am all in favour of that.

Yesterday when I got that study about country of origin I was happy to answer a lot of questions in favour of India. Picking the boxes saying "I support the products made in India" and "India is a growing economy" made me proud. Because it is not only for saying it. I know it is the truth. I know that I am a part of this growth movement. I do not carry if people around me are wearing Versace or Prada. I would proudly use khadi with Kolhapuri chappals. I would wear my jhumkas. I would carry a cotton bag that I have purchased from a local vendor. Because I am proud of India and my Indian heritage.

Yes country of origin does matter to me and I want it to be India.